The Influence The effect of Planting Refugia Types on the Diversity of Natural Enemies and the Intensity of Caterpillar Pest Attacks (Spodoptera exigua Hubner) on Shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.)

The influence of planting refugia types

Abstract

As the demand for shallots increases, farmers cultivate intensively. This increases the possibility of pests attacking shallot plants. In general, farmers control caterpillar pests using high doses of chemical pesticides. One of the negative impacts of pesticides is that it can increase the pest population. Control methods can utilize natural enemies through planting refugia. The types of refugia that have shown potential in controlling the population of Spodoptera exigua in shallots are marigold and zinnia. This study aims to determine the effect of planting a combination of refugia with various colors on the diversity of natural enemies and the intensity of pest attacks on shallot plants. This study used a simple Randomized Block Design (RAK) with a combination of refugia treatments of various colors. The results showed that planting refugia was proven to be able to suppress the population and intensity of Spodoptera exigua pest attacks compared to treatments without refugia. Planting refugia also succeeded in bringing in natural enemies. The R5 treatment (Orange Marigold + Purple Zinnia) tended to be the best with an index value (H') of 2.03 at a moderate level.

Keywords: Refugia, Natural Enemies, Pests, Red Onions